Years ago, the American male skin cleanser might have been the equivalent of a fine grade of sandpaper mixed with a bit of Lava soap. In order to save face, men and boys have been sneaking into their wives’ or mother’s drawers to find what they need when their faces needed moisturizing or to find cream for razor burn. Why? Stigma, or the lack of signature skincare products for men and boys; after all, men and boys do suffer from dry skin and might need a foundation to cover-up complexion problems too, don’t they? Addressing the need, and understanding the desire, Tom Ford and Marc Jacobs are launching cosmetic lines for men. They are bringing a solution to the cosmetics counter and online store—to meet the needs of men—their own niche cosmetics and skincare products, from shaving systems to body scrubs, you can find it all.

Boy how, things have changed! Now, if men are interested in taking care of their skin and using herbal shaving creams and after-shave treatments there is a large selection for them. Men, you can get what you need and want for your skin and choose the kind of skincare and fragrance that works for your lifestyle. You don’t need to have your wife, friend or sister shop for you at the Clinique counter; you have your own brands. It is understood—men use and buy skincare, designer shaving products, and even specially formulated foundations that work for male skin. European men have long known about and used skincare products, undaunted by social stigma, they cleanse their skin daily and use moisturizer and are unashamed to buy and talk about skin-health and proper care.

If you are looking for skincare products from Jack Black and other prominent designers, cologne, unique shaving accessories’ and body scrubs, Beauty Bridge has an array of products to suit your taste. If you prefer an unscented natural and herbal moisturizer, Baxter of California features Oil Free Moisturizer, a lightweight, oil free and fragrance-free selection, filled with antioxidants, vitamins E, A, and D, Japanese green tea, aloe and soothing chamomile.

If Sothys is more to your liking, you can find HOMME Soothing After-Shave Balm that brings freshness to the skin, prevents spots and soothes razor burn.

Today, specially formulated cosmetics and skincare products are wrapped with packaging that appeals to the male sensibility. Skincare and cosmetics for women only? Not really.